Small firms encouraged to apply for innovative Amazon programme as deadline approaches

Small firms who are looking for opportunities to innovate and grow have just under two weeks left to apply for an exclusive business accelerator programme, run by Amazon and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

A cohort of up to 25 businesses will be selected to take part in the Amazon Innovation Accelerator, a free programme which will showcase the latest trends and strategies on everything from tech adoption to leadership and management - with best-in-class guidance from across Amazon, Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the GBCC.

Over the course of the programme, participants will develop their knowledge and skills on topics including creating a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, data, digitalisation and robotics, sustainability and social value, and the regional business support and innovation ecosystem.

The programme’s core workshops will take place at Amazon’s state-of-the-art Sutton Coldfield robotics fulfilment centre which opened last year. 

There are now just two weeks to go until the application closing deadline of Friday 3 May.

The Amazon Innovation Accelerator is open to businesses with operations in the West Midlands that:

• Are in the manufacturing, engineering, logistics, retail or related industries 
• Employ 50+ members of staff or a turnover of over £1 million 
• Can commit to a senior member of staff participating in the full programme (two all-day workshops at Amazon on Friday 7 June and Friday 28 June, along with participation in a 90-minute, virtual masterclass webinar).

Henrietta Brealey (pictured), CEO at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, said: “The response to the launch of the Amazon Innovation Accelerator programme has been really positive and is testament to the quality of forward-looking businesses that are based here in the West Midlands.

“We know one of the top challenges, and opportunities, for businesses today is keeping pace with advances in technology and business practices. Previous participants in the pilot programme of Amazon Innovation Accelerators reported significantly improved digital readiness and innovation capability as a result of taking part.

“There is still time to apply for the programme and I would encourage businesses who fit the criteria to make the most of this valuable opportunity.

Find out more and complete the Amazon Innovation Accelerator application form.